Rossi: It’s important that he can get back on track so soon

Valentino Rossi has said it’s important that he can get back on track so soon after topping Monday’s Brno test with this weekends Austrian Grand Prix getting underway just four days later.

The Italian topped the one day test in the Czech Republic Monday and has now made the short trip from Brno to Spielberg where the Austrian Grand Prix will take place. Rossi and his Yamaha team took real steps forward during the Brno test, including some new lighter front forks he was a big fan of and an aero package that could help in some future races.

“Going back to the track immediately is very important to us, especially after a test like Monday’s in Brno, where we tried so many things,” said the nine-times World Champion.

“During the weekend in the Czech Republic we were fast in every condition and the test helped us to understand a bit more.”

This is the second year the paddock now head to the Red Bull Ring in Austria. Last year Ducati dominated proceedings with Andrea Iannone claiming Ducati’s first win in seven years with Dovizioso following home in second.

Rossi finished last years race in fourth position, behind the two Ducati’s and his then team-mate Jorge Lorenzo. Despite only finishing four seconds off the win last year, Rossi didn’t sound too hopeful for his chances of challenging for a race win this year.

“Now we go to the circuit of Austria, that’s not very favourable to us, but I hope we can fight for a good result,” he said.

“I’m fine with the YZR-M1 now, I can ride the bike better, I’m happy and I hope I can fight for the podium at every race. The championship is still open and it will be important to take as many points as possible.”